THREE teenagers have been charged with arson after a fire erupted at the Belmont Service Station, forcing 3000 residents to flee their homes.

They have been bailed to appear at Willesden Magistrates' Court at a date in February.

The fire, which occurred on Monday October 3 last year, caused huge disruption. Three thousand residents were forced to flee their homes as police and the fire brigade were concerned about large gas canisters at the Belmont Service Station exploding.

Occupants from an estimated 500 to 600 properties in Kenton Lane north of Tenby Avenue, Belmont Circle, Western Drive, Elgin Avenue, Kenmore Avenue, York Avenue, Ventor Avenue and Kingshill Drive sought shelter at St Anselm's Church in the early evening and were allowed back to their homes at 11pm.